New police chief officially sworn in

WILMINGTON -- Michael T. Imhof, 35, was officially sworn in as the city's newest, and more than likely, youngest, chief of police.

His appointment was made official during Tuesday night's city council meeting.

Imhof recently resigned from his family business, Bell Side 7 in Homer Glen. Imhof is married to Jennifer, daughter of former Will County Executive Chuck Adelman. The couple are the parents of Hunter, 9, Grant, 7 and Drake, 3.

Imhof was a rookie with the Wilmington Police Department and spent five years working as full-time police officer.

He served as a school liaison officer and as a detective. When he left to marry his high school sweetheart, he continued working part-time for the department.

"I was never that far away," Imhof said "I just built a brand-new home in Ritchie."

Imhof grew up in Plainfield and was living in Braidwood prior to his recent move to Wilmington.

Imhof brings with him a bachelor's degree in business and marketing from Northern Illinois University. He feels his background of managing 14 employees, will be an asset to be used in his new job. His experience will also help maintain a well-balanced budget.

One of his first duties will be to start evaluating the department. He plans to sit down with each individual.

"In general, I have an open door policy," Imhof said. "I need to hear their concerns."

Another one of his goals are to make the department more accessible to the residents of Wilmington. He will look into improving community policing programs and possibly starting neighborhood watch groups as well as sending out a community service survey.

His first official day on the job is Monday. Imhof will work with retiring Chief Wally Evans until Evans' June 1 departure.

The city council approved a one-year contract for Imhof with an annual salary of $75,000 which includes three weeks vacation.

Imhof said he is committed to his new job.

"This police department is where I want to hang my coat at night. This is where I want to stay," Imhof said. "I have no intention of looking elsewhere or using this as a stepping stone."

Reporter Kim Smith can be reached at (815) 729-6067 or at ksmith@scn1.com